Funk music is a style of popular music that emerged in the late 1960s as an offshoot of R&B (rhythm and blues). African-American musicians created it by combining elements of soul, jazz, and R&B, while strengthening the beat. Funk is characterized by strong bass lines and a strongly syncopated rhythm. Funk music also has a characteristic groove and a sense of rhythmic movement that makes you want to get up and dance. Particularly popular in the 1970s and early 1980s.

Representatives: James Brown, Marvin Gaye, Funkadelic, Parliament, Kool and the gang, Jamiroquai, Red hot chili peppers, KC and the sunshine band, The J.B.’s.